Description
Taco stir fry is a vibrant and effortless one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef with colorful bell peppers, black beans, corn, and classic taco spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be enjoyed over rice, inside warm tortillas, or as a taco bowl garnished with fresh lime, cilantro, and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Vegetables
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Liquids and Toppings
- ½ cup salsa
- ¼ cup water or beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese, optional
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking ground beef.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and cooked through.
- Add vegetables: Stir in diced onion and bell peppers; stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until they start to soften, releasing vibrant color and flavor.
- Season and garlic: Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 30 seconds while stirring frequently to toast the spices and infuse aroma.
- Add remaining ingredients: Mix in corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, salsa, and water or beef broth; cook for another 4–5 minutes stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Melt cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top if using, cover the skillet, and let sit for 1–2 minutes until melted and gooey.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges over rice, inside tortillas, or with tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter protein option.
- Add jalapeño or extra chili powder to increase heat level according to preference.
- For a low-carb alternative, serve with cauliflower rice or enjoy as a taco bowl without tortillas.
- Top with avocado slices, sour cream, pico de gallo, or pickled onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, One-Pan Meals, Mexican-Inspired
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
